Medical expert of the article
New publications
Age-related decline in testosterone has been linked to depression and obesity
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
The age-related decline in testosterone levels in men is not a result of aging, say scientists from the University of Adelaide in Australia. They say testosterone levels decline mainly due to smoking cessation and health changes such as obesity and depression.
The researchers analyzed testosterone data from 1,500 men who donated blood twice, five years apart. After eliminating participants who had abnormal lab results, were taking medications, or had diseases that affect hormone levels, 1,382 remained. The subjects ranged in age from 35 to 80 (average 54).
Over five years, the participants' blood testosterone levels decreased slightly: the rate decreased by less than 1% per year. However, when the authors analyzed the data on the subgroups of subjects, they discovered certain factors associated with decreased testosterone levels that were absent at the start of the study. Thus, those with low testosterone levels were more likely to be obese, former smokers, or depressed. At the same time, the scientists emphasize that although quitting smoking can cause a decrease in testosterone levels, the benefits from it are much greater.
Interestingly, the unmarried participants had a greater reduction in testosterone levels than married participants. This is explained by the fact that married people usually lead a healthier lifestyle and feel happier.